New operator to lead the Opera House’s harbourside dining venues
Sydney —
The Sydney Opera House today announced a 10-year agreement with Applejack to run the popular harbourside dining venues Opera Bar and House Canteen, two of the country’s most picturesque and popular dining destinations. The appointment follows a highly competitive tender process.
Applejack operates a broad range of award-winning bars, pubs and cafes, including the Taphouse and Forrester’s and restaurants including Bopp & Tone and RAFI. Their innovative proposal included showcasing Sydney’s cultural food scene at Opera Bar and a relaxed all-day café at House Canteen. Overall the proposal demonstrated exceptional value for the Opera House.
Sydney Opera House Chief Customer Officer Jade McKellar said: “We’re thrilled to have appointed Applejack to run the Opera House’s popular harbourside venues, Opera Bar and House Canteen, for the next 10 years. We were delighted by the exceptional standard of the submissions received, with Applejack’s detailing a compelling, vibrant vision for this community space that thousands of locals and visitors enjoy every year. There’s nothing quite like the Opera House, and I’m looking forward to working with Applejack to make the most of this tremendous opportunity.”
The Opera House also thanked the existing operator, Solotel, Matt Moran and General Manager John Gallas, for their outstanding contribution over 24 memorable years.
“The Solotel team has been instrumental to the success of these iconic Sydney venues, creating unforgettable experiences for locals and tourists over decades and contributing to the vitality of Sydney’s hospitality scene. We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve delivered together over this long-standing partnership. We thank them for their significant contribution and acknowledge their lasting legacy.”
Applejack Co-founders Ben Carroll & Hamish Watts, said: "This is a dream come true for our entire team. To be entrusted as custodians of venues at the Sydney Opera House – the world’s most iconic cultural stage – is both humbling and inspiring. We can’t wait to share the exciting new concepts we’ve developed for both locals and visitors while honouring this extraordinary location. Our gratitude goes to Solotel for their excellent stewardship, and we’re looking forward to building on that foundation with genuine innovation and care."
The appointment follows a comprehensive tender process that began in September 2024 in line with NSW Government procurement policy. The new contract commences from mid-September at Opera Bar, with House Canteen changing hands in mid-November. Solotel will continue to run both venues until that time. Refurbishments are planned to take place in 2026, with one of the venues open throughout.